Research ideas and references

What do we already know about the Cumberland Plain Woodland? What else will we need to know to look after the remnant bushland areas in Western Sydney successfully in the future?

Research and education ideas

Our Cumberland Plain Woodland Ecology web pages cover what we’ve learnt about the ecology in the woodland remnants at the Australian Botanic Garden. Here are some ideas that might provide avenues for future research.

Climate change poses a risk to many plant species. How will increased temperatures or changing rainfall patterns affect particular species?

Will some species be out-competed by others?

Will some long-lived species fail because there is no seedling recruitment?

What impacts are rabbits having?

Dispersal distance - how far can seeds be carried?

Microhabitats are seen to be important for seed germination but we have very little information for most of our species.

What is the rate of population turnover in the tussock grasses like Themeda triandra and Poa labillardierei? How long can they live?

A key to seedling identification for Cumberland Plain species would be a useful research tool.

Invertebrate/plant interactions - little is known and this is a fascinating field for studying topics that include pollination, seed and plant herbivory, and seed dispersal.